pull a boner pull a boner Make a blunder, as in I pulled an awful boner when I mentioned his ex-wife. This expression is derived from the noun bonehead, for “blockhead” or “stupid person.” [ ; early 1900s ]

verb (used with object) 1. to draw or haul toward oneself or itself, in a particular direction, or into a particular position: to pull a sled up a hill. 2. to draw or tug at with force. 3. to rend or tear: to pull a cloth to pieces. 4. to draw or pluck away from […]

noun 1. one of a group of annual prizes in journalism, literature, music, etc., established by Joseph Pulitzer: administered by Columbia University; first awarded 1917. Pulitzer prize noun 1. one of a group of prizes established by Joseph Pulitzer and awarded yearly since 1917 for excellence in American journalism, literature, and music

noun 1. Count Casimir [kaz-uh-meer] /ˈkæz əˌmɪər/ (Show IPA), 1748–79, Polish patriot; general in the American Revolutionary army. 2. a town in SW Virginia. 3. Fort. Fort Pulaski. noun 1. a double-edged hand tool having an ax blade on one side and a pickax or wide chisel on the opposite side, used especially in clearing […]

verb (used with or without object), puked, puking. Slang. 1. to vomit. noun 2. vomit. 3. any food or drink that is repulsive. anything or anyone that is contemptible or worthless. verb 1. to vomit noun 2. the act of vomiting 3. the matter vomited puke

noun, Hinduism. 1. the worship of a particular god. noun 1. (Hinduism) a ritual in honour of the gods, performed either at home or in the mandir (temple) noun in Hinduism or Buddhism, the ritual daily devotion involving offering of food and drink and prayers to a deity; also written pooja Word Origin Sanskrit ‘adoration, […]

noun 1. the act of a person or thing that puddles. 2. Metallurgy. the act or process of melting pig iron in a reverberatory furnace (puddling furnace) and converting it into wrought iron. 3. the act or method of making puddle. 4. puddle (def 3). noun 1. a small pool of water, as of rainwater […]

noun 1. the act of a person or thing that puddles. 2. Metallurgy. the act or process of melting pig iron in a reverberatory furnace (puddling furnace) and converting it into wrought iron. 3. the act or method of making puddle. 4. puddle (def 3). noun 1. a process for converting pig iron into wrought […]

/ˈpʌɡˌwɒʃ/ plural noun 1. international peace conferences of scientists held regularly to discuss world problems: Nobel peace prize 1995 awarded to Joseph Rotblat, one of the founders of the conferences, secretary-general (1957–73), and president from 1988

noun 1. one of a breed of small, short-haired dogs having a tightly curled tail, a deeply wrinkled face, and a smooth coat that is black or silver and fawn with black markings. 2. pug nose. adjective -gier, -giest 1. (NZ) sticky, claylike noun 1. Also called carlin. a small compact breed of dog with […]

noun 1. the act of a person who pugs. 2. coarse mortar or the like for deadening sound. verb (used with object), pugged, pugging. 1. to knead (clay or the like) with water to make it plastic, as for brickmaking. 2. to fill or stop with clay or the like. 3. to pack or cover […]

verb (used with object), pugged, pugging. 1. to knead (clay or the like) with water to make it plastic, as for brickmaking. 2. to fill or stop with clay or the like. 3. to pack or cover with mortar or the like, as to deaden sound. 4. to mix with water so as to form […]

noun 1. one of a breed of small, short-haired dogs having a tightly curled tail, a deeply wrinkled face, and a smooth coat that is black or silver and fawn with black markings. 2. pug nose. verb (used with object), pugged, pugging. 1. to knead (clay or the like) with water to make it plastic, […]

noun, Informal. 1. a newspaper article, book, public-relations film, etc., whose purpose is to praise or flatter. noun 1. a flattering newspaper or magazine article about a person or an organization noun an article or report in the media that is based on exaggerated praise to promote a person, entity, or event puff piece An […]

noun 1. a light, flaky, rich pastry made by rolling dough with butter and folding it to form layers: used for tarts, napoleons, etc. noun 1. a dough rolled in thin layers incorporating fat to make a rich flaky pastry for pies, rich pastries, etc

noun 1. a UK pedestrian road crossing with traffic lights signalling red to stop the traffic flow when pedestrians are seen on the crossing by infrared detectors. The green signal reappears when no pedestrians are seen on the crossing

noun 1. any of several alcidine sea birds of the genera Fratercula and Lunda, having a short neck and a large, compressed, grooved bill, as F. arctica (Atlantic puffin) of the North Atlantic. noun 1. any of various northern diving birds of the family Alcidae (auks, etc), esp Fratercula arctica (common or Atlantic puffin), having […]

noun 1. a short, quick blast, as of wind or breath. 2. an abrupt emission of air, smoke, vapor, etc. 3. an act of inhaling and exhaling, as on a cigarette or pipe; whiff. 4. the sound of an abrupt emission of air, vapor, etc. 5. a small quantity of vapor, smoke, etc., emitted at […]

noun 1. any of several tropical American birds of the family Bucconidae, related to the barbets, having a large head with the feathers often fluffed out. noun 1. any of various brownish tropical American birds of the family Bucconidae, having a large head: order Piciformes (woodpeckers, etc)

noun 1. any of various basidiomycetous fungi, especially of the genus Lycoperdon and allied genera, characterized by a ball-like fruit body that emits a cloud of spores when broken. noun 1. any of various basidiomycetous saprotrophic fungi of the genera Calvatia and Lycoperdon, having a round fruiting body that discharges a cloud of brown spores […]

noun 1. any of various basidiomycetous fungi, especially of the genus Lycoperdon and allied genera, characterized by a ball-like fruit body that emits a cloud of spores when broken. noun 1. any of various basidiomycetous saprotrophic fungi of the genera Calvatia and Lycoperdon, having a round fruiting body that discharges a cloud of brown spores […]

noun 1. a large, thick-bodied, African viper, Bitis arietans, that inflates its body and hisses when disturbed. 2. a similar viper, B. inornata, native to southern Africa. noun 1. a large venomous African viper, Bitis arietans, that is yellowish-grey with brown markings and inflates its body when alarmed 2. another name for hognose snake

noun 1. a short, quick blast, as of wind or breath. 2. an abrupt emission of air, smoke, vapor, etc. 3. an act of inhaling and exhaling, as on a cigarette or pipe; whiff. 4. the sound of an abrupt emission of air, vapor, etc. 5. a small quantity of vapor, smoke, etc., emitted at […]

noun 1. acerola. noun 1. the cherrylike fruit of a small tree, Malpighia glabra, of the West Indies and adjacent areas, having a high concentration of vitamin C. 2. the tree itself. noun 1. a small tree or shrub, Malpighia glabra, that grows in the rainforests of N South America, Central America, and Jamaica 2. […]

noun, Obstetrics. 1. the four-week period following childbirth. noun 1. the period following childbirth, lasting approximately six weeks, during which the uterus returns to its normal size and shape puerperium pu·er·pe·ri·um (pyōō’ər-pēr’ē-əm) n. pl. pu·er·pe·ri·a (-pēr’ē-ə) The state of a woman during childbirth or immediately thereafter. The approximate six-week period lasting from childbirth to the […]

adjective 1. of or relating to a woman in childbirth. 2. pertaining to or connected with childbirth. adjective 1. of, relating to, or occurring during the puerperium puerperal pu·er·per·al (pyōō-ûr’pər-əl) adj. Relating to, connected with, or occurring during childbirth or the period immediately following childbirth.

noun, plural puerperae [pyoo-ur-puh-ree] /pyuˈɜr pəˌri/ (Show IPA). Obstetrics. 1. a woman who has recently given birth to a child. puerpera pu·er·per·a (pyōō-ûr’pər-ə) n. pl. pu·er·per·ae (-pər-ē’) A woman who has just given birth.

noun, Psychiatry. 1. childishness in the behavior of an adult. noun 1. (psychiatry) immature or childish behaviour by an adult puerilism pu·er·il·ism (pyōō’ər-ə-lĭz’əm, pyur’ə-) n. Childish behavior in an adult, especially as a symptom of mental illness.

adjective 1. of or relating to a child or to childhood. 2. childishly foolish; immature or trivial: a puerile piece of writing. adjective 1. exhibiting silliness; immature; trivial 2. of or characteristic of a child

noun, plural pueblos [pweb-lohz; Spanish pwe-blaws] /ˈpwɛb loʊz; Spanish ˈpwɛ blɔs/ (Show IPA) 1. a communal structure for multiple dwelling and defensive purposes of certain agricultural Indians of the southwestern U.S.: built of adobe or stone, typically many-storied and terraced, the structures were often placed against cliff walls, with entry through the roof by ladder. […]

noun 1. a Union Territory of SE India: transferred from French to Indian administration in 1954 and made a Union Territory in 1962. Capital: Puducherry. Pop: 973 829 (2001 est). Area: 479 sq km (185 sq miles) 2. a port in SE India, capital of the Union Territory of Puducherry (Pondicherry), on the Coromandel Coast. […]

noun 1. a small, hollow-toothed deer of the genus Pudu, native to the South American Andes, having a dark brown or gray coat, a small head, and spiked antlers: now greatly reduced in number; P. pudu may be at risk of extinction. noun 1. a diminutive Andean antelope, Pudu pudu, some 35 cm (13 to […]

pudendal nerve n. A nerve that is formed by fibers from the second, third, and fourth sacral nerves, passes through the greater sciatic foramen, and accompanies the internal pudendal artery to terminate as the dorsal nerve of the penis or of the clitoris.

pudendal artery n. An artery with distribution to the corpus cavernosum of the penis; internal pudendal artery. An artery with origin in the femoral artery, with distribution to the skin over the pubis, the skin over the penis, scrotum, or labia majora; and with anastomoses to the dorsal artery of the penis or of the […]

noun 1. a person who publicizes, especially a press agent or public-relations consultant. 2. an expert in current public or political affairs. 3. an expert in public or international law. noun 1. a person who publicizes something, esp a press or publicity agent 2. a journalist 3. (rare) a person learned in public or international […]

noun 1. extensive mention in the news media or by word of mouth or other means of communication. 2. public notice so gained. 3. the measures, process, or business of securing public notice. 4. information, articles, or advertisements issued to secure public notice or attention. 5. the state of being public, or open to general […]

noun 1. extensive mention in the news media or by word of mouth or other means of communication. 2. public notice so gained. 3. the measures, process, or business of securing public notice. 4. information, articles, or advertisements issued to secure public notice or attention. 5. the state of being public, or open to general […]

noun an event staged to get public attention or for marketing purposes Examples A publicity stunt is a planned event designed to attract media attention to the promoters, the perpetrators, or their cause. Word Origin 1908

noun 1. a small pool of water, as of rainwater on the ground. 2. a small pool of any liquid. 3. clay or the like mixed with water and tempered, used as a waterproof lining for the walls of canals, ditches, etc. verb (used with object), puddled, puddling. 4. to mark or scatter with puddles. […]

noun 1. a thick, soft dessert, typically containing flour or some other thickener, milk, eggs, a flavoring, and sweetener: tapioca pudding. 2. a similar dish unsweetened and served with or as a main dish: corn pudding. 3. British. the dessert course of a meal. 4. Nautical. a pad or fender for preventing scraping or chafing […]

verb (used with or without object) 1. to draw or gather into wrinkles or irregular folds, as material or a part of the face; constrict: Worry puckered his brow. noun 2. a wrinkle; an irregular fold. 3. a puckered part, as of cloth tightly or crookedly sewn. 4. Archaic. a state of agitation or perturbation. […]

verb (used with or without object) 1. to draw or gather into wrinkles or irregular folds, as material or a part of the face; constrict: Worry puckered his brow. noun 2. a wrinkle; an irregular fold. 3. a puckered part, as of cloth tightly or crookedly sewn. 4. Archaic. a state of agitation or perturbation. […]

noun 1. Ice Hockey. a black disk of vulcanized rubber that is to be hit into the goal. 2. British Computers. mouse (def 4). noun 1. Also called Hobgoblin, Robin Goodfellow. a particularly mischievous sprite in English folklore who appears as a character in Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. 2. (lowercase) a malicious or mischievous […]

noun 1. any of certain plants that yield a red dye, as the bloodroot and certain plants belonging to the genus Lithospermum, of the borage family. 2. the dye itself. noun 1. Also called alkanet. any of several North American boraginaceous plants of the genus Lithospermum, esp L. canescens, that yield a red dye See […]

puborectal muscle n. The part of the elevator muscle of the anus that passes from the body of the pubis around the anus to form a muscular sling at the level of the anorectal junction. The puborectal muscle relaxes during defecation.

pubococcygeal muscle pu·bo·coc·cyg·e·al muscle (pyōō’bō-kŏk-sĭj’ē-əl) n. A muscle formed of the fibers of the elevator muscle of the anus, arising from the pelvic surface of the body of the pubis, and attaching to the coccyx.

noun 1. (Publius Licinius Valerianus) died a.d. c260, Roman emperor 253–60. noun 1. Also called allheal. any of various Eurasian valerianaceous plants of the genus Valeriana, esp V. officinalis, having small white or pinkish flowers and a medicinal root 2. a sedative drug made from the dried roots of V. officinalis noun 1. Latin name […]

“the chief man of the island” of Malta (Acts 28:7), who courteously entertained Paul and his shipwrecked companions for three days, till they found a more permanent place of residence; for they remained on the island for three months, till the stormy season had passed. The word here rendered “chief man” (protos) is supposed by […]

Produce published work or fall into disfavor. For example, The younger members of the department have a heavier teaching load, but they also know it’s publish or perish. This expression is nearly always used for college or university teachers, for whom advancement frequently is predicated on publishing research in their field. [ Mid-1900s ]

noun 1. the activities or business of a publisher, especially of books or periodicals: He plans to go into publishing after college. verb (used with object) 1. to issue (printed or otherwise reproduced textual or graphic material, computer software, etc.) for sale or distribution to the public. 2. to issue publicly the work of: Random […]

noun 1. a person or company whose business is the publishing of books, periodicals, engravings, computer software, etc. 2. the business head of a newspaper organization or publishing house, commonly the owner or the representative of the owner. noun 1. a company or person engaged in publishing periodicals, books, music, etc 2. (US & Canadian) […]

verb (used with object) 1. to issue (printed or otherwise reproduced textual or graphic material, computer software, etc.) for sale or distribution to the public. 2. to issue publicly the work of: Random House publishes Faulkner. 3. to submit (content) online, as to a message board or blog: I published a comment on her blog […]

verb (used with object) 1. to issue (printed or otherwise reproduced textual or graphic material, computer software, etc.) for sale or distribution to the public. 2. to issue publicly the work of: Random House publishes Faulkner. 3. to submit (content) online, as to a message board or blog: I published a comment on her blog […]

verb (used with object) 1. to issue (printed or otherwise reproduced textual or graphic material, computer software, etc.) for sale or distribution to the public. 2. to issue publicly the work of: Random House publishes Faulkner. 3. to submit (content) online, as to a message board or blog: I published a comment on her blog […]

plural noun 1. structures, as roads, dams, or post offices, paid for by government funds for public use. public works plural noun 1. engineering projects and other constructions, financed and undertaken by a government for the community public works definition Public facilities and improvements financed by the government for the public good. Public works include […]

noun 1. a business enterprise, as a public-service corporation, performing an essential public service and regulated by the federal, state, or local government. Compare utility (def 3). 2. Usually, public utilities. stocks or bonds of public-utility companies, excluding railroads. public utility noun 1. an enterprise concerned with the provision to the public of essentials, such […]

noun 1. charitable trust. charitable trust noun 1. a trust designed for the benefit of the general public, as for educational or other charitable purposes (opposed to private trust). charitable trust noun 1. a trust set up for the benefit of a charity that complies with the regulations of the Charity Commissioners to enable it […]

communications (PSTN, T.70) The collection of interconnected systems operated by the various telephone companies and administrations (telcos and PTTs) around the world. Also known as the Plain Old Telephone System (POTS) in contrast to xDSL and ISDN (not to mention other forms of PANS). The PSTN started as human-operated analogue circuit switching systems (plugboards), progressed […]

[puhb-lik-spir-i-tid] /ˈpʌb lɪkˈspɪr ɪ tɪd/ adjective 1. having or showing an unselfish interest in the public welfare: a public-spirited citizen. public-spirited adjective 1. having or showing active interest in public welfare or the good of the community

noun 1. the business of supplying an essential commodity, as gas or electricity, or a service, as transportation, to the general public. 2. government employment; civil service. 3. a service to the public rendered without charge by a profit-making organization: This radio program has been brought to you as a public service. public service noun […]

noun 1. the area of the nation’s affairs under governmental rather than private control. public sector noun 1. the part of an economy that consists of state-owned institutions, including nationalized industries and services provided by local authorities Compare private sector public sector definition That part of the economy controlled by the government. (Compare private sector.)

noun 1. (in the U.S.) a school that is maintained at public expense for the education of the children of a community or district and that constitutes a part of a system of free public education commonly including primary and secondary schools. 2. (in England) any of a number of endowed secondary boarding schools that […]

noun 1. the fundamental policy on which laws rest, especially policy not yet enunciated in specific rules. 2. Law. the principle that injury to the public good or public order constitutes a basis for setting aside, or denying effect to, acts or transactions.

adverb 1. in a public or open manner or place. 2. by the public. 3. in the name of the community. 4. by public action or consent. adverb 1. in a public manner; without concealment; openly 2. in the name or with the consent of the public

noun 1. (in Britain) an act of Parliament that directs compensation to an author for the library loan of his or her book. Public Lending Right noun 1. the right of authors to receive payment when their books are borrowed from public libraries PLR

noun 1. Also called public act, public statute. a law or statute of a general character that applies to the people of a whole state or nation. 2. a branch of law dealing with the legal relationships between the state and individuals and with the relations among governmental agencies. Compare private law. 3. public international […]

cryptography, communications (PKI) A system of public key encryption using digital certificates from Certificate Authorities and other registration authorities that verify and authenticate the validity of each party involved in an electronic transaction. PKIs are currently evolving and there is no single PKI nor even a single agreed-upon standard for setting up a PKI. However, […]

cryptography (PKE, Or “public-key cryptography”) An encryption scheme, introduced by Diffie and Hellman in 1976, where each person gets a pair of keys, called the public key and the private key. Each person’s public key is published while the private key is kept secret. Messages are encrypted using the intended recipient’s public key and can […]

cryptography, standard (PKCS) A set of standards for public-key cryptography, developed by RSA Data Security, Inc. in cooperation with an informal consortium, originally including Apple, Microsoft, DEC, Lotus, Sun and MIT. The PKCS have been cited by the OSI Implementers’ Workshop (OIW) as a method for implementation of OSI standards. PKCS includes both algorithm-specific and […]

verb (used with object), publicized, publicizing. 1. to give publicity to; bring to public notice; advertise: They publicized the meeting as best they could. verb 1. (transitive) to bring to public notice; advertise

verb (used with object), publicized, publicizing. 1. to give publicity to; bring to public notice; advertise: They publicized the meeting as best they could. verb 1. (transitive) to bring to public notice; advertise

noun 1. (surnamed Philadelphus) 309?–247? b.c, king of Egypt 285–247? (son of Ptolemy I). noun 1. called Philadelphus. 309–246 bc, the son of Ptolemy I; king of Egypt (285–246). Under his rule the power, prosperity, and culture of Egypt was at its height

noun 1. any of a class of foul-smelling nitrogenous substances produced by bacteria during putrefaction of animal or plant protein: formerly thought to be toxic. noun 1. any of a group of amines, such as cadaverine or putrescine, formed by decaying organic matter ptomaine pto·maine (tō’mān’, tō-mān’) n. A basic nitrogenous organic compound produced by […]

noun 1. (erroneously) food poisoning thought to be caused by ptomaine. ptomaine poisoning noun 1. a popular term for food poisoning ptomaine poisoning n. Food poisoning, erroneously believed to be the result of ptomaine ingestion. Not in technical use.

verb (used with object), publicized, publicizing. 1. to give publicity to; bring to public notice; advertise: They publicized the meeting as best they could. verb 1. (transitive) to bring to public notice; advertise

verb (used with object), publicized, publicizing. 1. to give publicity to; bring to public notice; advertise: They publicized the meeting as best they could. verb 1. (transitive) to bring to public notice; advertise

noun 1. the welfare or well-being of the general public; commonwealth: health programs that directly affect the public interest. 2. appeal or relevance to the general populace: a news story of public interest.

noun 1. health services to improve and protect community health, especially sanitation, immunization, and preventive medicine. public health pub·lic health (pŭb’lĭk) n. Abbr. PH, P.H. The science and practice of protecting and improving the health of a community, as by preventive medicine, health education, control of communicable diseases, application of sanitary measures, and monitoring of […]

noun 1. economic activity by governmental organizations Compare private enterprise (sense 1) noun any economic activity carried out by the government; also, a business or industry controlled by the government Examples Utilities (gas, electricity, etc.), broadcasting, telecommunications, and certain forms of transport are examples of public enterprise. Word Origin 1849

or Public Enemy Number 1, Public Enemy No. 1 noun 1. (not in official use) a criminal at the top of the FBI’s list of the ten most wanted criminals. 2. a major menace to public safety, health, etc.: Cancer is Public Enemy Number One.

noun 1. a person or thing considered a danger or menace to the public, especially a wanted criminal widely sought by the F.B.I. and local police forces. 2. a nation or government with which one’s own is at war. public enemy noun 1. a notorious person, such as a criminal, who is regarded as a […]

noun, Law. 1. the status of a literary work or an invention whose copyright or patent has expired or that never had such protection. 2. land owned by the government. public domain noun 1. (US) lands owned by a state or by the federal government 2. the status of a published work or invention upon […]

noun any of the ways in which a country or organization such as the United Nations communicates with citizens in other societies, as opposed to diplomacy carried out between national governments Examples Arranging student exchange programs, hosting seminars, and meeting with foreign business and academic leaders are all considered public diplomacy. Word Origin 1856

noun 1. a lawyer appointed or elected by a city or county as a full-time, official defender to represent indigents in criminal cases at public expense. public defender noun 1. (in the US) a lawyer engaged at public expense to represent indigent defendants public defender definition An attorney who is appointed and paid by a […]

noun 1. a corporation, owned and operated by a government, established for the administration of certain public programs. 2. municipal corporation. 3. a large private corporation with many shares, which are sold to the public or traded on a stock exchange. public corporation noun 1. (in Britain) an organization established to run a nationalized industry […]

noun, British. 1. a company that has more than 50 shareholders and whose shares are offered for public subscription. public company noun 1. a limited company whose shares may be purchased by the public and traded freely on the open market and whose share capital is not less than a statutory minimum; public limited company […]

noun 1. a congressional or parliamentary bill involving the general interests of the people at large or of the whole community. noun 1. (in Parliament) a bill dealing with public policy that usually applies to the whole country Compare private bill, hybrid bill

noun, British. 1. (in a tavern or pub) the common section of a bar or barroom, not as exclusive, as quiet, or as comfortably furnished as the saloon section. noun 1. (Brit) a bar in a public house usually serving drinks at a cheaper price than in the saloon bar Also called the public Compare […]

noun 1. the act of publishing a book, periodical, map, piece of music, engraving, or the like. 2. the act of bringing before the public; announcement. 3. the state or fact of being published. 4. something that is published, especially a periodical. noun 1. the act or process of publishing a printed work 2. any […]

noun 1. government aid to the poor, disabled, or aged or to dependent children, as financial assistance or food stamps. public assistance noun 1. (US) payment given to individuals by government agencies on the basis of need

noun 1. Chiefly British. a person who owns or manages a tavern; the keeper of a pub. 2. Roman History. a person who collected public taxes. 3. any collector of taxes, tolls, tribute, or the like. noun 1. (in Britain) a person who keeps a public house 2. (in ancient Rome) a public contractor, esp […]

[puhb-lik-uh-dres] /ˈpʌb lɪk əˈdrɛs/ noun 1. a combination of electronic devices that makes sound audible via loudspeakers to many people, as in an auditorium or out of doors. public-address system noun 1. a system of one or more microphones, amplifiers, and loudspeakers for increasing the sound level of speech or music, used in auditoriums, public […]

[puhb-lik-ak-ses, -ak-] /ˈpʌb lɪkˌæk sɛs, -ˈæk-/ noun 1. a noncommercial system of broadcasting on television channels made available to independent or community groups for programs of general interest to the community. 2. one or more channels on cable television that by law are reserved for noncommercial broadcasting by members of the public.

noun 1. the availability of noncommercial television and radio broadcasting facilities to community groups or members of the public for programs of general interest to the community, especially as a condition of cable television franchises. 2. a type of noncommercial programming of general interest to the community.

adjective 1. of, relating to, or affecting a population or a community as a whole: public funds; a public nuisance. 2. done, made, acting, etc., for the community as a whole: public prosecution. 3. open to all persons: a public meeting. 4. of, relating to, or being in the service of a community or nation, […]

noun, plural pubes [pyoo-beez] /ˈpyu biz/ (Show IPA). Anatomy. 1. that part of either innominate bone that, with the corresponding part of the other, forms the front of the pelvis. noun (pl) -bes (-biːz) 1. one of the three sections of the hipbone that forms part of the pelvis pubis pu·bis (pyōō’bĭs) n. pl. pu·bes […]

pubiotomy pu·bi·ot·o·my (pyōō’bē-ŏt’ə-mē) n. Surgical severance of the pubic bone a few centimeters lateral to the symphysis, especially to increase the capacity of a contracted pelvis sufficiently to permit the passage of a fetus during childbirth. Also called pelviotomy.

noun 1. See under louse (def 1). noun, plural lice [lahys] /laɪs/ (Show IPA), for 1–3, louses for 4. 1. any small, wingless insect of the order Anoplura (sucking louse) parasitic on humans and other mammals and having mouthparts adapted for sucking, as Pediculus humanus (body louse or head louse) and Phthirius pubis (crab louse […]

[NYU] (also “pube directory” /pyoob’ d*-rek’t*-ree/) The “pub” (public) directory on a machine that allows FTP access. So called because it is the default location for SEX (software exchange). [Jargon File]

adjective 1. of, relating to, or situated near the pubes or the pubis. adjective 1. of or relating to the pubes or pubis: pubic hair pubic pu·bic (pyōō’bĭk) adj. Of, relating to, or located in the region of the pubis or the pubes. Relating to the pubic region of the abdomen. pubis (py’bĭs) Plural pubes […]

adjective 1. arriving or arrived at puberty. 2. Botany, Zoology. covered with down or fine short hair. adjective 1. arriving or having arrived at puberty 2. (of certain plants and animals or their parts) covered with a layer of fine short hairs or down pubescent pu·bes·cent (pyōō-běs’ənt) adj. Reaching or having reached puberty. Covered with […]

adjective 1. arriving or arrived at puberty. 2. Botany, Zoology. covered with down or fine short hair. adjective 1. arriving or having arrived at puberty 2. (of certain plants and animals or their parts) covered with a layer of fine short hairs or down pubescence pu·bes·cence (pyōō-běs’əns) n. The state of being pubescent. The attainment […]

noun, plural pubes. Anatomy. 1. the lower part of the abdomen, especially the region between the right and left iliac regions. 2. the hair appearing on the lower part of the abdomen at puberty. noun 1. plural of pubis. noun, plural pubes [pyoo-beez] /ˈpyu biz/ (Show IPA). Anatomy. 1. that part of either innominate bone […]

noun 1. the period or age at which a person is first capable of sexual reproduction of offspring: in common law, presumed to be 14 years in the male and 12 years in the female. noun 1. the period at the beginning of adolescence when the sex glands become functional and the secondary sexual characteristics […]

verb (used without object) 1. to have drinks at one bar after another. noun 2. pub crawl. noun 1. an instance or period of pub-crawling. noun 1. a drinking tour of a number of pubs or bars verb 2. (intransitive) to make such a tour pub crawl

noun 1. a bar or tavern. 1. public. 2. publication. 3. published. 4. publisher. 5. publishing. noun 1. (mainly Brit) Formal name public house. a building with a bar and one or more public rooms licensed for the sale and consumption of alcoholic drink, often also providing light meals 2. (Austral & NZ) a hotel […]

Symbol, Chemistry. 1. plutonium. Chemical symbol 1. plutonium Pu The symbol for the element plutonium. Pu The symbol for plutonium. plutonium (pl-tō’nē-əm) Symbol Pu A silvery, radioactive metallic element of the actinide series that has the highest atomic number of all naturally occurring elements. It is found in minute amounts in uranium ores and is […]

adjective 1. (of a semiconductor) having a density of mobile holes in excess of that of conduction electrons 2. associated with or resulting from the movement of holes in a semiconductor: p-type conductivity Compare n-type P-type Made of material, usually a semiconductor such as silicon, that has been doped with impurities so that it has […]

noun, Biochemistry. 1. an enzyme in the saliva that converts starch into dextrin and maltose. noun 1. (biochem) an amylase secreted in the saliva of man and other animals ptyalin pty·a·lin (tī’ə-lĭn) n. An amylase present in saliva that catalyzes the hydrolysis of starch into maltose and dextrin. ptyalin (tī’ə-lĭn) An enzyme found in the […]

noun, Pathology. 1. a drooping of the upper eyelid. 2. prolapse or drooping of any organ. noun (pl) ptoses (ˈtəʊsiːz) 1. prolapse or drooping of a part, esp the eyelid ptosis pto·sis (tō’sĭs) n. pl. pto·ses (-sēz) Abnormal lowering or drooping of an organ or a part, especially a drooping of the upper eyelid caused […]

noun 1. (surnamed Soter) 367?–280 b.c, ruler of Egypt 323–285: founder of Macedonian dynasty in Egypt. noun 1. called Ptolemy Soter. ?367–283 bc, king of Egypt (323–285 bc), a general of Alexander the Great, who obtained Egypt on Alexander’s death and founded the Ptolemaic dynasty: his capital Alexandria became the centre of Greek culture

Ptolemaic universe [(tol-uh-may-ik)] The model for the universe, put forth by the ancient Greek astronomer Ptolemy, that had the Earth at the center, with the sun, moon, planets, and stars revolving around it. Note: The Ptolemaic system prevailed in astronomy for nearly fifteen hundred years, until the model of the solar system proposed by Nicolaus […]

noun, Astronomy. 1. a system elaborated by Ptolemy and subsequently modified by others, according to which the earth was the fixed center of the universe, with the heavenly bodies moving about it. Ptolemaic system noun 1. the theory of planetary motion developed by Ptolemy from the hypotheses of earlier philosophers, stating that the earth lay […]

adjective 1. of or relating to Ptolemy or his system of astronomy. 2. of or relating to the dynastic house of the Ptolemies or the period of their rule in Egypt. adjective 1. of or relating to the Greek astronomer Ptolemy or to his conception of the universe 2. of or relating to the Macedonian […]

noun 1. a nourishing decoction, originally one made from barley, purported to have medicinal quality. noun 1. grape juice drained off without pressure 2. a variant spelling of tisane ptisan ptis·an (tĭz’ən, tĭ-zān’) n. A medicinal infusion, such as sweetened barley water.

noun, plural pterylae [ter-uh-lee, -lahy] /ˈtɛr əˌli, -ˌlaɪ/ (Show IPA). Ornithology. 1. one of the feathered areas on the skin of a bird. noun (pl) -lae (-ˌliː) 1. (ornithol) any of the tracts of skin that bear contour feathers, arranged in lines along the body of a bird

noun, plural pterylae [ter-uh-lee, -lahy] /ˈtɛr əˌli, -ˌlaɪ/ (Show IPA). Ornithology. 1. one of the feathered areas on the skin of a bird. noun (pl) -lae (-ˌliː) 1. (ornithol) any of the tracts of skin that bear contour feathers, arranged in lines along the body of a bird

/ˈtɛrɪˌɡɔɪd/ noun 1. (anatomy) either of two long bony plates extending downwards from each side of the sphenoid bone within the skull pterygoid process n. A long process of the sphenoid bone extending downward from the junction of its body and great wing.

pterygoid pter·y·goid (těr’ĭ-goid’) adj. Of, relating to, or located in the region of the sphenoid bone. Resembling a wing; winglike. n. Either of two processes descending from the body of the sphenoid bone.

noun 1. any flying reptile of the extinct order Pterosauria, from the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods, having the outside digit of the forelimb greatly elongated and supporting a wing membrane. noun 1. any extinct flying reptile of the order Pterosauria, of Jurassic and Cretaceous times: included the pterodactyls Compare dinosaur, plesiosaur pterosaur (těr’ə-sôr’) Any of […]

pteropterin pter·op·ter·in (těr-ŏp’tər-ĭn) n. A crystalline conjugate of folic acid containing three molecules of glutamic acid instead of one and having the general properties of a polypeptide. Also called pteroyltriglutamic acid.

adjective 1. belonging or pertaining to the Pteropoda, a group of mollusks having the lateral portions of the foot expanded into winglike lobes used in swimming. noun 2. a pteropod mollusk. noun 1. any small marine gastropod mollusc of the group or order Pteropoda, in which the foot is expanded into two winglike lobes for […]

noun 1. any of a number of genera of flying reptiles of the extinct order Pterosauria, from the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods, having a highly reduced tail and teeth and a birdlike beak. noun 1. any extinct flying reptile of the genus Pterodactylus and related genera, having membranous wings supported on an elongated fourth digit […]

1. a combining form meaning “wing,” “feather,” used in the formation of compound words: pterodactyl. combining form 1. wing, feather, or a part resembling a wing: pterodactyl ptero- or pter- pref. Wing; feather: pterion.

noun, Craniometry. 1. the craniometric point at the side of the sphenoidal fontanelle. pterion pter·i·on (těr’ē-ŏn’, tēr’-) n. The junction of the greater wing of the sphenoid bone and the squamous temporal, the frontal, and the parietal bones.

pteridine (těr’ĭ-dēn’) Any of a group of organic compounds having two fused six-member rings each containing two nitrogen atoms and four carbon atoms. One of the rings is a pyrimidine, the other a pyrazine. Pteridines include folic acid and the pigments of butterfly wings.

noun 1. a flying reptile of the extinct order Pterosauria, from the Cretaceous Period, having a wingspread of about 25 feet (8 meters). pteranodon (tə-rān’ə-dŏn’) Any of several very large, extinct flying reptiles (pterosaurs) of the genus Pteranodon of the Cretaceous Period. Pteranodon had a long pointed crest on its head, no teeth, a very […]

noun, plural ptarmigans (especially collectively) ptarmigan. 1. any of several grouses of the genus Lagopus, of mountainous and cold northern regions, having feathered feet. noun (pl) -gans, -gan 1. any of several arctic and subarctic grouse of the genus Lagopus, esp L. mutus, which has a white winter plumage 2. (sometimes capital) a created domestic […]

noun 1. an ancient Egyptian deity, believed to be a universal creator and sometimes identified with other gods: worshiped especially at Memphis when it was the royal residence. noun 1. (in ancient Egypt) a major god worshipped as the creative power, esp at Memphis PTAH phosphotungstic acid hematoxylin

humour /si:’ton/ (From TMRC) The elementary particle carrying the sinister force. The probability of a process losing is proportional to the number of psytons falling on it. Psytons are generated by observers, which is why demos are more likely to fail when lots of people are watching. This term appears to have been largely superseded […]

plural noun 1. short for psychological operations noun psychological operations carried out by the military, esp. to influence the attitudes and perceptions of individuals, organizations, or governments

noun 1. fleawort. 2. Also called psyllium seed. the seeds of this plant, used as a laxative. noun 1. a grain, Plantago psafra, the husks of which are used medicinally as a laxative and to reduce blood cholesterol levels psyllium psyl·li·um (sĭl’ē-əm) n. An annual Eurasian plant having opposite leaves and small flowers borne in […]

noun, (used with a singular or plural verb) Plant Pathology. 1. a viral disease transmitted by the potato psyllid, causing the young leaves of potatoes, tomatoes, eggplants, and peppers to curl and turn yellow or purplish.

noun 1. any of numerous lice, of the family Psyllidae, that feed on plant juices and are sometimes pests of fruits and vegetables. noun 1. jumping plant louse. noun 1. any homopterous insect of the family Psyllidae, which comprises the jumping plant lice See plant louse (sense 2)

noun 1. Psychology. a graph indicating the relative strength of the personality traits of an individual. 2. a psychologically oriented biography. psychograph psy·cho·graph (sī’kə-grāf’) n. A graphic representation or chart of the personality traits of an individual or a group. psy’cho·graph’ic adj.

[sahy-krom-i-tree] /saɪˈkrɒm ɪ tri/ noun 1. the employment of the psychrometer. 2. the science of measuring the water-vapor content of the air. psychrometry psy·chrom·e·try (sī-krŏm’ĭ-trē) n. The calculation of relative humidity and water-vapor pressures from temperature and barometric pressure. Also called hygrometry.

[sahy-krom-i-ter] /saɪˈkrɒm ɪ tər/ noun 1. an instrument for determining atmospheric humidity by the reading of two thermometers, the bulb of one being kept moist and ventilated. psychrometer /saɪˈkrɒmɪtə/ noun 1. a type of hygrometer consisting of two thermometers, one of which has a dry bulb and the other a bulb that is kept moist […]

noun, Informal. 1. an act or instance of psyching out. verb (used with object), Informal. 1. to intimidate or frighten psychologically, or make nervous (often followed by out): to psych out the competition. 2. to prepare psychologically to be in the right frame of mind or to give one’s best (often followed by up): to […]

[sahy-koh-ther-uh-pee] /ˌsaɪ koʊˈθɛr ə pi/ noun, plural psychotherapies. 1. the treatment of psychological disorders or maladjustments by a professional technique, as psychoanalysis, group therapy, or behavioral therapy. psychotherapy /ˌsaɪkəʊˈθɛrəpɪ/ noun 1. the treatment of nervous disorders by psychological methods psychotherapy psy·cho·ther·a·py (sī’kō-thěr’ə-pē) n. The treatment of mental and emotional disorders through the use of psychological […]

[sahy-koh-sin-thuh-sis] /ˌsaɪ koʊˈsɪn θə sɪs/ noun 1. a theoretical effort to reconcile components of the unconscious, including dreams, with the rest of the personality. psychosynthesis /ˌsaɪkəʊˈsɪnθɪsɪs/ noun 1. a form of psychotherapy intended to release the patient’s full potential by focusing on the positive rather than the negative

psychosomatic disorder n. A disorder characterized by physical symptoms resulting from psychological factors, usually involving a ystem of the body such as the gastrointestinal or genitourinary system. Also called psychophysiologic disorder.

[sahy-koh-suh-mat-ik, -soh-] /ˌsaɪ koʊ səˈmæt ɪk, -soʊ-/ adjective 1. of or relating to a physical disorder that is caused by or notably influenced by emotional factors. 2. pertaining to or involving both the mind and the body. psychosomatic /ˌsaɪkəʊsəˈmætɪk/ adjective 1. of or relating to disorders, such as stomach ulcers, thought to be caused or […]

[sahy-koh-suh-mat-ik, -soh-] /ˌsaɪ koʊ səˈmæt ɪk, -soʊ-/ adjective 1. of or relating to a physical disorder that is caused by or notably influenced by emotional factors. 2. pertaining to or involving both the mind and the body. psychosomatic /ˌsaɪkəʊsəˈmætɪk/ adjective 1. of or relating to disorders, such as stomach ulcers, thought to be caused or […]

[sahy-koh-soh-shuh l] /ˌsaɪ koʊˈsoʊ ʃəl/ adjective 1. of or relating to the interaction between social and psychological factors. psychosocial /ˌsaɪkəʊˈsəʊʃəl/ adjective 1. of or relating to processes or factors that are both social and psychological in origin psychosocial psy·cho·so·cial (sī’kō-sō’shəl) adj. Involving aspects of both social and psychological behavior.

noun, plural psychoses [-seez] /-siz/ (Show IPA). Psychiatry. 1. a mental disorder characterized by symptoms, such as delusions or hallucinations, that indicate impaired contact with reality. 2. any severe form of mental disorder, as schizophrenia or paranoia. noun (pl) -choses (-ˈkəʊsiːz) 1. any form of severe mental disorder in which the individual’s contact with reality […]

psychosexual dysfunction n. A disturbance of sexual functioning, such as impotence, premature ejaculation, or anorgasmy, that may be caused by one’s mental and emotional difficulties concerning sexuality rather than physical disorders.

psychosexual development n. In Freudian psychoanalytic theory, the influence that sexual growth has on personality development from birth to adult life, with the phases of sexual maturation designated as oral, anal, phallic, latency, and genital.

noun, plural psychoses [-seez] /-siz/ (Show IPA). Psychiatry. 1. a mental disorder characterized by symptoms, such as delusions or hallucinations, that indicate impaired contact with reality. 2. any severe form of mental disorder, as schizophrenia or paranoia. noun (pl) -choses (-ˈkəʊsiːz) 1. any form of severe mental disorder in which the individual’s contact with reality […]

[sahy-koh-fiz-ee-ol-uh-jee] /ˌsaɪ koʊˌfɪz iˈɒl ə dʒi/ noun 1. the branch of physiology that deals with the interrelation of mental and physical phenomena. psychophysiology /ˌsaɪkəʊˌfɪzɪˈɒlədʒɪ/ noun 1. the branch of psychology concerned with the physiological basis of mental processes psychophysiology psy·cho·phys·i·ol·o·gy (sī’kō-fĭz’ē-ŏl’ə-jē) n. The study of correlations between the mind, behavior, and bodily mechanisms. Also called […]

noun 1. any of a group of disorders, as tension headache, characterized by physical symptoms that are partly induced by emotional factors. psychophysiologic disorder psy·cho·phys·i·o·log·ic disorder (sī’kō-fĭz’ē-ə-lŏj’ĭk) n. See psychosomatic disorder.

[sahy-koh-fiz-iks] /ˌsaɪ koʊˈfɪz ɪks/ noun, (used with a singular verb) 1. the branch of psychology that deals with the relationships between physical stimuli and resulting sensations and mental states. psychophysics /ˌsaɪkəʊˈfɪzɪks/ noun 1. (functioning as sing) the branch of psychology concerned with the relationship between physical stimuli and the effects they produce in the mind […]

[sahy-koh-fiz-iks] /ˌsaɪ koʊˈfɪz ɪks/ noun, (used with a singular verb) 1. the branch of psychology that deals with the relationships between physical stimuli and resulting sensations and mental states. psychophysics /ˌsaɪkəʊˈfɪzɪks/ noun 1. (functioning as sing) the branch of psychology concerned with the relationship between physical stimuli and the effects they produce in the mind […]

[sahy-koh-fahr-muh-kol-uh-jee] /ˌsaɪ koʊˌfɑr məˈkɒl ə dʒi/ noun 1. the branch of pharmacology dealing with the psychological effects of drugs. psychopharmacology /ˌsaɪkəʊˌfɑːməˈkɒlədʒɪ/ noun 1. the study of drugs that affect the mind psychopharmacology psy·cho·phar·ma·col·o·gy (sī’kō-fär’mə-kŏl’ə-jē) n. The branch of pharmacology dealing with the study of the actions and the effects of psychoactive drugs. psy’cho·phar’ma·co·log’ic (-kə-lŏj’ĭk) or […]

noun 1. (law) (in England, according to the Mental Health Act 1983) a persistent disorder or disability of mind which results in abnormally aggressive or seriously irresponsible conduct on the part of the person concerned See also mental disorder

noun 1. a person with a psychopathic personality, which manifests as amoral and antisocial behavior, lack of ability to love or establish meaningful personal relationships, extreme egocentricity, failure to learn from experience, etc. noun 1. a person afflicted with a personality disorder characterized by a tendency to commit antisocial and sometimes violent acts and a […]

noun 1. agitation (def 3). noun 1. the act or process of agitating; state of being agitated: She left in great agitation. 2. persistent urging of a political or social cause or theory before the public. 3. Also called psychomotor agitation. psychological and physical restlessness, manifested by pacing, hand-wringing, or other activity, sometimes occurring as […]

adjective 1. of or relating to a response involving both motor and psychological components. adjective 1. of, relating to, or characterizing movements of the body associated with mental activity psychomotor psy·cho·mo·tor (sī’kō-mō’tər) adj. Of or relating to movement or muscular activity associated with mental processes. Relating to the combination of psychic and motor events, including […]

noun 1. Psychology. psychometrics. 2. the alleged art or faculty of divining facts concerning an object or a person associated with it, by contact with or proximity to the object. noun (psychol) 1. measurement and testing of mental states and processes See also psychometrics 2. (in parapsychology) the supposed ability to deduce facts about events […]

noun 1. Psychology. psychometrics. 2. the alleged art or faculty of divining facts concerning an object or a person associated with it, by contact with or proximity to the object. psychometric /ˌsaɪkəʊˈmɛtrɪk/ adjective 1. of or relating to psychometrics or psychometry noun (psychol) 1. measurement and testing of mental states and processes See also psychometrics […]

noun, plural psychologies. 1. the science of the mind or of mental states and processes. 2. the science of human and animal behavior. 3. the sum or characteristics of the mental states and processes of a person or class of persons, or of the mental states and processes involved in a field of activity: the […]

[sahy-kol-uh-jahyz] /saɪˈkɒl əˌdʒaɪz/ verb (used without object), psychologized, psychologizing. 1. to make psychological investigations or speculations, especially those that are naive or uninformed. psychologize /saɪˈkɒləˌdʒaɪz/ verb (intransitive) 1. to make interpretations of behaviour and mental processes 2. to carry out investigation in the field of psychology psychologize psy·chol·o·gize (sī-kŏl’ə-jīz’) v. psy·chol·o·gized, psy·chol·o·giz·ing, psy·chol·o·giz·es To explain […]

[sahy-kol-uh-jiz-uh m] /saɪˈkɒl əˌdʒɪz əm/ noun, (often used pejoratively) 1. emphasis upon psychological factors in the development of a theory, as in history or philosophy. 2. a term or concept of psychology or psychoanalysis, especially when used in ordinary conversation or a nontechnical context. psychologism /saɪˈkɒləˌdʒɪzəm/ noun 1. the belief in the importance and relevance […]

noun 1. the use of propaganda, threats, and other psychological techniques to mislead, intimidate, demoralize, or otherwise influence the thinking or behavior of an opponent. psychological warfare noun 1. the military application of psychology, esp to propaganda and attempts to influence the morale of enemy and friendly groups in time of war

noun a suspenseful movie or book emphasizing the psychology of its characters rather than the plot; this sub-genre of thriller movie or book Examples In a psychological thriller, the characters are exposed to danger on a mental level rather than a physical one. Word Origin 1925

noun 1. the proper or critical time for achieving a desired result: She found the right psychological moment to make her request. psychological moment noun 1. the most appropriate time for producing a desired effect: he proposed to her at the psychological moment psychological moment n. The time at which the mental state of a […]